Chile - The Atacama Desert

The stark Atacama Desert in northern Chile is the driest on earth, but it is a landscape of colossal sand dunes, immense salt fields, geysers, hot springs and striking gorges inhabited by llamas, vicuñas and flocks of flamingos. The high altitude desert is overshadowed by imposing Andean peaks and massive volcanoes and is one of the most extraordinary landscapes on the planet.

The lodge features attractive accommodations opening onto a central courtyard, many units providing views of the smoldering Licancabur Volcano. The main hacienda houses several relaxing lounges and an indoor/outdoor dining room specializing in fine regional food. Lap pools and a massage studio, a new observatory (and viewing the stars from the observatory at night is a must), plus exciting daily menu of scenic guided hikes, including dune walks, visits to the haunting Valley of the Moon (used by NASA to test robot vehicles for the exploration of other planets) and awesome sunrise excursions to the El Tatio geysers followed by a soak in the thermal baths of Puritama – all are elements of a lodge with a real sense of place.

Whilst the much-travelled readers of Conde Nast have voted this lodge the ‘Number one overseas leisure hotel in the whole of the America’s and Caribbean’, Paul rates it very high on his list of places that he has been lucky enough to visit, to have visually inhaled, connected with, tasted (oh those delightful Chilean wines!) and now be able to vividly and fondly recall.

An Explora package includes:
• 4 nights accommodation
• All meals
• Tours & activities

Please contact Paul for more information on (02) 8270 4800 or email him at ppatane@conciergetraveller.com.au

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